AND FLOWERS OF POETRY. 145 
They stood within a recess shady, 
Apart from all — and thus he said: 
“ Dear cousin, wouldst thou know the lady, 
Whom I do love, whom I would wed ?” 
A moment glowed her youthful cheek — 
A moment flashed her timid eyes 
In mute reply — she dared not speak; 
Alas! how soon her sweet hope dies! 
“I’ll lead thee to her — yonder, dearest;” 
He took her hand — ’t was deadly cold ; 
They crossed the hall — “What is’t thou fearest? 
Look up, Julie! — my love behold!” 
With sudden pride she dashed aside 
The curls that hid her drooping brow, 
“ I welcome her,” she proudly cried, 
An d raised her eyes—what sees she now? 
No highborn dame to mock her shame, 
No rival robed in rich array! 
Bacit to her cheek the colour came, 
And warmer rose her pulse’s play; — 
Before her stood, in simple guise, 
Reflected by a mirror bright, 
Her own fair form! — her own blue eyes 
Returned her gaze of wild delight! 
F. 8. O. 
N 
* 
